London Irish have confirmed the signing of second-row George Skivington on a three-year deal.

The 29-year-old arrives at the Madejski Stadium from Aviva Premiership rivals Leicester Tigers and at 6'6 and weighing in at over 18 stones, he will bring a physical presence to the Exiles' second-row. Skivington has captained the England Saxons in the past and turned out 40 times for the Tigers after his switch from London Wasps.

And Skivington is delighted to link up once again with Toby Booth. "Having worked with Toby Booth at Saxons level before, I know what he is about and what he expects from his players," Skivington said. "Irish are an ambitious club with a strong coaching set-up and there are lots of talented players in the squad that I look forward to playing alongside."

Booth will look to Skivington in both and on and off field capacity and is relishing the physicality he will bring to the Exiles' pack. "George is a powerhouse and a very physical player who will bring additional size and strength to the front five of our forward pack," Booth said. "I already have firsthand knowledge of George having coached him previously and have always been impressed with his work ethic and on-field leadership.

"His experience and success means that he brings with him not only a wealth of knowledge, honesty and hard work but also a winning mentality. He has a lot to offer London Irish both on and off the field and I very much look forward to working with him again."

The news comes as doubt still surrounds the futures of Nick Kennedy, amid reports he could be set to join Top 14 big-spenders Toulon, and Bob Casey who is set to retire at the end of the season. And Kennedy's future looks set to be elsewhere after he hinted at his exit on his Twitter account:

Great news we have signed Skivington to take over from big Bob. Now all we need is @VictorMatfield to fill my boots!?